Fuller, a student in the 4+27 months entry-level dual-degree health science studies/masters of health sciences in physician assistant program, enrolled in the healthcare career exploration pre-college program the summer before his senior year of high school. He was originally drawn to the experience out of curiosity for the Quinnipiac experience.

“I initially enrolled in the summer program because I wanted to see what college life was like and wanted to see what living on campus was like,” said Fuller.

It was also the sneak peek into Quinnipiac that helped Fuller finalize his college enrollment decision.

“I chose Quinnipiac because of the culture and community. I knew I wanted a medium-size school that was not too far but also close to home with a good community bond and nice people where I could feel supported. Quinnipiac checked all those boxes for me,” said Fuller. “I think the program helped solidify that as well because there is only so much you can learn about a school from touring it and going to admissions events.”

Even now as a third-year student at Quinnipiac, Fuller still has gratitude for all that the program gave him.

“The program helped me see how much the different healthcare professions work together for the common goal of helping the patient,” said Fuller. “It also opened my eyes to how much a tight-knit community college is. It also gave me a leg up with knowing how college classes are run and how college is different than high school.”

In addition to the professional insights gained from the pre-college program, Fuller made lifelong friends and connections during the program.

“Several of my friends from the program came to Quinnipiac, so I already knew a lot of people. There are so many people from my summer program that I am still friends with to this day,” said Fuller.

For high school students who are considering participating in the summer program, Fuller’s advice is clear.

“Take advantage of the time you are there. Go talk to admissions, go sit in the library — do not just stay in your dorm after the program is over for the day. Campus offices are open during the summer, so this is a great opportunity to get to know the campus when it is just high schoolers there,” said Fuller.